From The Boardroom - Liverpool

23 November 2014

We bring you the latest notes from the boardroom as they appear in today's edition of the match programme.

Over the international break I was delighted to see a product of our own academy, Nathaniel Clyne, handed his senior debut by England manager Roy Hodgson for the game against Slovenia and, I’m sure like you, I was delighted to witness such an outstanding performance by him wearing the Three Lions. He followed this up against Scotland in midweek and I am not the first to say that he has a great opportunity to make that position his own at that level. I'm sure it was a proud moment for Neil Warnock as he gave Nathaniel his league debut in 2008.

Once again it was great to see so many of our squad called up by their respective countries and, even though we had a couple that had to miss out through injury, there were some excellent contributions from our lads who all played their part representing their national sides.

This match obviously brings back memories of last season’s thriller. That was a night where this club captured a lot of exposure worldwide as we showed some great character to earn much more than just a point as we received such great feedback from a global audience and it was really encouraging to see the reaction to our club both on and off the pitch. It is important we continue to grow our brand across the world, and games like this gives us great exposure and highlights why it is important that we maintain our status in this league.

As you may have seen on our content channels this week we were delighted to welcome Clinton Morrison back to the club as he took the seat in our latest edition of ‘Brighty Meets…’. I have been told he had some great stories as he discussed his playing career with Mark and I know that pre-match today the interview is being shown on the stadium screen and in the lounges, and then will be available on the club’s YouTube channel. It was really good of Clinton to give up his time to come along for that interview and I certainly look forward to seeing it in full as two Palace legends come together.

That character that I spoke about earlier when looking back at this match last season is something that we will need at this club in the coming weeks. Results, if not performances, may have been disappointing of late but it is so important that with a busy schedule of matches coming up with the festive period just around the corner that we all stay together and keep tight as a club, to ensure we are staying positive so we can all play our part in making sure we continue to move forward.

It was with great sadness to hear this week of the passing of a massive fan favourite, Joyce ‘The Voice’ True. I can remember in the Eighties hearing her from the Arthur Wait Stand as she was never shy giving her opinions on the game, and I’m sure Brighty can remember hearing her words of encouragement in those days! May I take this opportunity to send condolences to her family at this sad time.

Today is one of those occasions when we are on view to a worldwide audience, so let’s really do ourselves proud and show what this club is all about.